A low-carb diet limits your intake of grains, cereals, breads, sugars and many fruits. Convenience foods like pasta, pizza, sandwiches and burgers contain a significant amount of carbohydrates, making them inappropriate for low-carb dieters. Simple low-carb meals can still be prepared quickly using lean meats, fresh vegetables and low-carb condiments.
Rotisserie Chicken and Salad
Instead of popping into a fast food restaurant, run into the grocery store and pick up a rotisserie chicken and a bag of prewashed lettuce. Choose romaine or arugula for the least amount of carbs and greatest nutrition. At home, eat the chicken breast without the skin to minimize your consumption of any carbohydrates present in the spice rub. Dress the prewashed lettuce with 1 tbsp. of Italian or blue cheese dressing.
Fish Tacos
Prepare quick low-carb tacos by sprinkling thin fillets of tilapia or flounder with chili powder and salt. Broil the fish until opaque -- just 2 to 3 minutes a side. Wrap with large leaves of Boston or romaine lettuce and add salsa, sour cream and avocado.
Frittata
Eggs are a quick-cooking, low-carb option. Beat 2 eggs and 1 egg white with salt and pepper. Heat a medium-sized skillet over moderate heat, and sauté 1 tbsp. diced onion, ½ cup zucchini and 1 tsp. minced garlic. Pour the eggs over, and top with ¼ cup grated cheddar or mozzarella. Bake in a 350 F oven until the eggs are set, and serve with a large green salad with romaine, cucumber and radishes dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Ground Turkey Stir Fry
For a hot meal, heat olive oil in a heavy-duty skillet over high heat. Add ground turkey and brown it for about 5 minutes. Remove to a separate plate, and sauté onion, garlic, green beans and chopped frozen broccoli in the pan. After about 3 minutes, when the vegetables are tender, return the turkey to the pan and season with a splash of soy sauce, red pepper flakes, chicken broth and a bit of sesame oil. Serve in a bowl with 1 tbsp. chopped peanuts on top.
Member Comments